Carl's Pizza

Discover Carl's Pizza in Denver, a beloved long-standing Italian eatery since the 1970s offering classic pies, hearty spaghetti, and comfort food in a cozy, historic setting. Enjoy dine-in, takeout, or delivery with friendly service and wheelchair-accessible amenities. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or family gatherings.

Welcome to Carl's Pizza

Experience the finest dining

Carl's Pizza
Carl's Pizza
Carl's Pizza
Carl's Pizza

Step into Carl's Pizza at 3800 W 38th Ave, in the heart of Denver, Colorado. Since the 1970s, this neighborhood staple has served up authentic Italian cuisine in a simple, cozy environment. Its history echoes in every brick and corner, where generations of locals and tourists alike savor the aroma of fresh-baked pies and Italian classics. The friendly staff greets each guest as family, creating a community vibe that turns a meal into a memorable experience. Whether you're craving a quick slice, a hearty dinner, or seeking a spot for family or solo dining, Carl's offers consistent quality at affordable prices between $10 and $20.

Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, it’s the perfect place to connect over good food. Discover why locals call it the city’s best kept pizza secret, nestled amidst Denver's vibrant West 38th neighborhood.

Carl's Pizza features a menu that balances traditional favorites with local specialties. Fast service ensures you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying. From classic cheese and sausage pizzas to house-made Italian dishes, every option prioritizes fresh ingredients. The restaurant offers no-contact delivery, takeout, and dine-in, accommodating all comfort levels. Wide accessibility includes wheelchair-friendly parking, entrances, and seating, making every guest feel welcome.

The lively yet casual atmosphere invites families, students from the nearby University of Colorado Denver campus, and groups of friends to relax and indulge. The bar offers a selection of beer, cocktails, and wine, perfect for accompanying your meal. Plus, special dining options include a private room for larger gatherings and kids’ menus, making Carl's an inclusive community hub.

Location & Contact

The Setting

Address

3800 W 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80211, United States

Phone

+1 303-477-1694

Social Media

About

The Journey Behind the Flavor

Carl's Pizza
Carl's Pizza
Carl's Pizza
Carl's Pizza

Carl's Pizza stands as a beacon of classic Italian-American cuisine in Denver. Its story begins over four decades ago, built on the principles of quality ingredients and friendly service. Originally founded by Karl DiGiacomo, the restaurant retains its family-oriented charm while adapting to modern dining needs. The menu is a heartfelt tribute to traditional Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant Parmesan, chicken Parmesan, and, of course, legendary pizza piled high with fresh toppings.

Each pizza is crafted with a thin, crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and premium cheese, reflecting Colorado’s growing appreciation for authentic flavors. The interior echoes a 70s nostalgia, with simple decor and cozy booths that foster a warm, homely feeling. Regulars love the fast, attentive service and the restaurant's ability to make everyone feel like a local. Carl's menu also includes Italian sandwiches, Calzones, hearty salads, and desserts, ensuring there is something for everyone.

It’s a place where everyone knows your name and your favorite dish. This community favorite is more than a restaurant; it’s a Denver tradition you can trust for consistent quality and a welcoming vibe. When you visit Carl’s, you're not just grabbing a meal—you're joining a family that values tradition, community, and great food.

Carl's Pizza

The exterior of Carl's Pizza exudes a timeless appeal, with a simple sign beckoning passersby in Denver’s lively West 38th neighborhood. The outdoor vibe invites casual, laid-back dining with street parking and wheelchair accessibility. The outdoor signage and welcoming entrance set the tone for a cozy, historic setting inside. Once through the doors, the ambiance echoes the 70s—warm, intimate booths, vintage decor, and friendly chatter fill the air. Despite its unpretentious appearance, this place buzzes with an authentic Italian-American spirit. Its straightforward, no-frills vibe makes every visitor feel at home.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or settling in for a late-night bite, Carl's maintains a vibrant, community-driven atmosphere that celebrates generations of Denver families and friends enjoying good food in good company.

Work Hours

Reservations & Service Hours

  • Sunday11 AM–10 PM
  • Monday11 AM–10 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–10 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–10 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–10 PM
  • Friday11 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–10 PM

Guestbook & Reviews

Customer Reviews

Always great to visit an old friend! My family has eaten at Carl's many times since the 1970's. One of the old neighborhood's favorites. Great they are still doing it right. We had lunch specials on most recent visit. All delicious. Service was knowledgeable, attentive and fast.

J
Jason K.

We had an 82 year old house guest I took to Carl’s for lunch. After a terrific meal (he had the soup of the day and I had a cheeseburger). I asked him; if I blindfolded him, told him I took him through a time machine and uncovered his eyes in Carl’s what would he think? Without hesitating he said he would believe me! Carl’s has a great Italian food focused menu and the friendly service staff will make you feel like you’ve been whisked back in time to a place with good cooking at a great price will greet you at every visit.

E
Edward B.

We had spaghetti and meatballs and eggplant Parmesan and it was delicious. The salad was fresh, the waitress was friendly and I was as usual pleasantly surprise. I worked for Karl DiGiacomo back in 1970 along with his son’s Gary and Jack. The place remains the same,it’s almost like coming home. I so enjoyed myself and my girlfriend Nancy🌸 and I try to meet there at least once a year because we work there together years ago. I will always love Karl’s pizzeria.

B
Brenda J.

The best Italian pizza in Denver nothing else even compares. Ingredients are fresh and the best you can Get on your pizza. And I have been Eating at Carl's for over 40 years.

N
Nick C.

Great pizza piled with fresh ingredients! Great service! It's a dump but is a classic.

G
Gregg S.

My new favorite place on the planet!!!! It's gonna be hard to beat it! Authentic, Delicious, Italian Street Pizza (my term. Not theirs). Amazing pizza options and fantastic Italian dinners. It's not pretty, but it's the real deal! Ya gotta go!

M
Mark L.